How to identify the Chestnut-backed Chickadee

To correctly identify the Chestnut-backed Chickadee (Poecile rufescens), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

11.5-13 cm (4.5-5.1 in)

Wingspan

19-21 cm (7.5-8.3 in)

Weight

8.5-12.5 g (0.3-0.44 oz)

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adults have a distinctive chestnut-brown back and flanks, a black cap extending to the nape, a black bib, and clean white cheeks. The underparts are whitish, often with a buffy wash on the belly. Wings and tail are dark gray with paler edgings.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Small, conical, and sharply pointed; black in color.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Dark gray to black.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   The rich chestnut-brown back and flanks are the most defining features, distinguishing it from all other North American chickadees. The white cheek patch is also prominent.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles resemble adults but may have slightly duller plumage, particularly the chestnut coloration, and a less sharply defined bib. Their overall appearance is very similar to adults shortly after fledging.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes. Plumage may appear slightly worn or faded by late summer before molting.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males and females are monomorphic in plumage; there are no discernible visual differences between the sexes.

Key field marks

• Back and Flank Color. Look for the rich, reddish-brown (chestnut) coloration on the back and sides of the bird. This is the most definitive field mark.
• Head Pattern. Observe the black cap and bib, sharply contrasting with bright white cheek patches. The black cap extends to the nape.
• Size and Shape. Note its small, plump body with a relatively large head and short neck, typical of chickadees.
• Behavior. Watch for its active, acrobatic foraging style, often hanging upside down on branches or twigs.
• Vocalizations. Listen for its distinctive, buzzy 'chick-a-dee-dee-dee' call, which often sounds huskier than other chickadees, and its simple 'see-dee-dee' song.

Explore the Chestnut-backed Chickadee